[go: up one dir, main page]

US5165772A - Visual display device - Google Patents

Visual display device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US5165772A
US5165772A US07/853,473 US85347392A US5165772A US 5165772 A US5165772 A US 5165772A US 85347392 A US85347392 A US 85347392A US 5165772 A US5165772 A US 5165772A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
edge
display panel
light
walls
display device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
US07/853,473
Inventor
Wei-Yu Wu
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
AT&T MVPD Group LLC
Original Assignee
Hughes Aircraft Co
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Hughes Aircraft Co filed Critical Hughes Aircraft Co
Assigned to HUGHES AIRCRAFT COMPANY reassignment HUGHES AIRCRAFT COMPANY ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: WU, WEI-YU
Priority to US07/853,473 priority Critical patent/US5165772A/en
Priority to EP92920572A priority patent/EP0585413A1/en
Priority to JP5516505A priority patent/JPH06507365A/en
Priority to CA002103158A priority patent/CA2103158A1/en
Priority to PCT/US1992/007560 priority patent/WO1993018939A1/en
Priority to KR1019930703494A priority patent/KR960001839B1/en
Priority to MX9205395A priority patent/MX9205395A/en
Publication of US5165772A publication Critical patent/US5165772A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Assigned to HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION reassignment HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: HE HOLDINGS INC., HUGHES ELECTRONICS FORMERLY KNOWN AS HUGHES AIRCRAFT COMPANY
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/30—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating rear of vehicle, e.g. by means of reflecting surfaces
    • B60Q1/302—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating rear of vehicle, e.g. by means of reflecting surfaces mounted in the vicinity, e.g. in the middle, of a rear window
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/235—Light guides
    • F21S43/236—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide
    • F21S43/237—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide rod-shaped
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/235—Light guides
    • F21S43/236—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide
    • F21S43/239—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide plate-shaped
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/235—Light guides
    • F21S43/242—Light guides characterised by the emission area
    • F21S43/245—Light guides characterised by the emission area emitting light from one or more of its major surfaces
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/235—Light guides
    • F21S43/247—Light guides with a single light source being coupled into the light guide

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to visual displays, and more specifically to a visual display device which is especially suitable for automotive center-high-mounted stop-light (CHMSL) and brake light applications.
  • CHMSL center-high-mounted stop-light
  • Red colored CHMSLs for automotive vehicles are becoming increasingly popular due to the greatly increased safety margin they provide.
  • newer vehicles and retrofit packages for older vehicles are available which include the CHMSL in the form of a third brake light which is mounted near the top of the vehicle rear window. Depression of the vehicle brake pedal causes the CHMSL to be illuminated in combination with the two low mounted brake lights to form a triangle pattern with greatly enhanced visibility and ability to immediately attract the attention of the operator of a trailing vehicle.
  • Statistics have already proven that CHMSLs have prevented numerous traffic accidents in situations requiring emergency braking under high speed, congested traffic conditions.
  • a major problem which has persisted in providing a CHMSL on a conventional automotive vehicle is that existing devices generally include an opaque housing having a rear-facing translucent red panel with a white illuminating bulb inside the housing which is wired to the vehicle's brake circuit.
  • the opaque housing itself constitutes a safety hazard in that it blocks a portion of the view through the rear window which the vehicle operator must see via the rear-view mirror in order to monitor the proximity of other vehicles.
  • the opaque housing or at least a light blocking member (which may be the reflector) behind the illuminating bulb and red panel is necessary to prevent the vehicle operator from confusing the CHMSL with a light from another vehicle.
  • CHMSLs and brake lights including a white bulb, a large and bulky reflector and a red display panel which constitutes a red filter, are inefficient in that only the red component of light from the bulb is transmitted through the panel. All other colors or wavelengths of light are absorbed by the panel and thereby wasted. The result is that the intensity of the red light emitted by the device is considerably lower than the intensity of white light emitted by the bulb.
  • a CHMSL including a linear red light source, and a display panel having a first surface formed with optical quality, light reflecting grooves, which reflect and disperse light coupled from the light source into an edge of the display panel out a second surface of the panel which is opposite to the first surface.
  • the display panel viewed from the first surface is transparent at all times.
  • the display panel viewed from the second surface produces a red light pattern reflected from the grooves when the light source is turned on, and appears transparent when the light source is turned off.
  • the CHMSL of the related application is not suitable for mounting on an automobile rear window which is tilted downwardly from the horizontal by a small angle (less than approximately 20°), since the amount of light reflected out through the second surface of the panel in the horizontal direction is unacceptably small.
  • a visual display device embodying the present invention is especially suitable for use as a central high mounted stoplight (CHMSL) for an automobile rear window which slants downwardly from the horizontal by a small angle.
  • the device includes a linear light source which preferably emits red light.
  • a display panel has a light receiving edge extending parallel and adjacent to the light source means and first and second opposing surfaces.
  • the second surface slants toward the first surface in a direction away from the edge and is formed with steps having walls which are angled toward the edge such that the peak output light propagating through the display panel from the edge is refracted horizontally out of the display panel.
  • the first surface is flat, the first and/or second surfaces may be made concave to conform to the shape of a curved automobile rear window.
  • the walls of the steps are tilted or cut back toward the light receiving edge from the vertical by a small angle, which is on the same order as the angle by which the rear window is tilted or slanted downwardly from the horizontal.
  • substantially all of the light which enters the edge of the display panel is usefully refracted horizontally out of the panel.
  • the present display device is suitable for mounting as a CHMSL on the top of an automobile rear window with an arbitrarily small downward slant angle.
  • the walls of the steps are formed with laterally spaced depressions for lateral dispersion of light.
  • the edge of the panel may be made concave to vertically diverge the light beam into the panel.
  • the linear light source is a light emitting diode module or the like which produces a diverging light beam
  • the edge of the panel may be made convex to converge the light beam into the panel.
  • the visual display device of the present invention is simple in structure, highly efficient, and inexpensive to manufacture on a commercial production basis.
  • the display panel may conceivably be used individually as an element in other types of display devices. It has been determined experimentally that a display device of the present invention configured as a CHMSL including a suitable light source such as a light emitting diode module or high pressure neon discharge tube provides a red light display having an intensity substantially in excess of federal requirements.
  • the present display device is not limited to use as a CHMSL, but can be advantageously employed in other applications in which a uniform, linear light source is required.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a visual display device embodying the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the display device
  • FIG. 3 is a fragmentary sectional view, to enlarged scale, illustrating the operation of the display device
  • FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the geometry of the display device
  • FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating lateral light dispersing depressions formed in walls of steps of a slanted surface of a display panel of the display device;
  • FIG. 6 is a sectional view illustrating a modified display device embodying the present invention having a curved lower or upper mounting surface
  • FIG. 7 is a sectional view illustrating a modified display device embodying the present invention including a display panel having a light receiving edge with a convex cross-section;
  • FIG. 8 is a sectional view illustrating a modified display device embodying the present invention including a display panel having a light receiving edge with a concave cross-section.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a visual display device 10 which may be advantageously employed as a CHMSL and includes a linear light source 12, and a display panel 14 made of a light transmissive material such as glass or acrylic. Further illustrated are orthogonal X-, Y- and Z-axes or directions which are indicated by arrows and lines respectively.
  • the light source 12 emits a linear light beam which is elongated in the Z-direction, and propagates from the light source 12 into the panel 14 in the X-direction.
  • the light source 12 may include any suitable elements for emitting a linear light beam, such as a laser diode module, light emitting diode module, high pressure neon tubular discharge lamp, fiber optic array, etc.
  • the light source 12 includes a linear light emitting element 12a, and an optional parabolic reflector 12b which reflects and forms light emitted by the element 12a into a flat beam which enters a light receiving edge 14a of the display panel 14.
  • the reflector 12b is necessary only where the light emitting element 12a is tubular.
  • the light source 12 emits red light.
  • the edge 14a lies in the Y-Z plane and is perpendicular to a first surface 14b of the panel 14 which lies in the X-Z plane.
  • the panel 14 further has a second surface 14c which opposes and slants or tapers toward the first surface 14b in a direction away from the edge 14a. More specifically, the second surface 14c approaches the first surface 14b in the Y-direction as the distance from the edge 14a in the X-direction increases.
  • the second surface 14c is formed with a plurality of steps 14d having walls 14e which are elongated in the Z-direction. As illustrated more clearly in FIG. 3, the walls 14e are angled or cut back toward the edge 14a by an angle ⁇ 1 .
  • the display device 10 is mounted on a surface 18 which is inclined (or equivalently slanted or tilted downwardly) by an angle ⁇ relative to the horizontal as indicated by a line 20.
  • the surface 18 is typically the rear window of an automobile, with the first surface 14b of the display panel 14 being flush therewith.
  • the present display device is not limited to use as a CHMSL, but can be advantageously employed in other applications in which a uniform, linear light source is required.
  • the device 10 can be mounted vertically to illuminate a floor or desk from above.
  • a desk lamp incorporating the device 10 is unique in that the display panel 14 is transparent and will not block the forward view of the user.
  • the device 10 can also be used to illuminate signs at business and other establishments from below.
  • the device 10 can be used as a movable linear spotlight for creating special effects in theatrical and film productions.
  • the device 10 is illustrated as being mounted on top of the surface 18, it is also possible to mount the device 10 on the bottom of the surface 18 using suitable hardware (not shown) with the first surface 14b of the panel 14 parallel to the surface 18.
  • suitable hardware not shown
  • a transparent cover or housing made of plastic or the like may be provided over the display device 10 for protection against accumulated dust, scratches, etc.
  • the light source 12 emits the light beam into the edge 14a of the panel 14 in the X-direction, parallel to the X-Z plane.
  • the beam propagates through the panel 14 and is contained therein by total internal reflection between the surfaces 14b and 14c until it reaches the walls 14e of the steps 14d.
  • the angle ⁇ 1 of the walls 14e is selected as a predetermined function of ⁇ and the index of refraction ⁇ 1 of the panel 14 such that the peak output light parallel to the X-direction is refracted out of the panel 14 through the walls 14e horizontally as indicated by arrows 22. This is accomplished by selecting the angle ⁇ 1 such that the light is refracted out through the walls 14e at the angle ⁇ away from the first surface 14b.
  • the present display device 10 is suitable for mounting as a CHMSL on an automobile rear window with an arbitrarily small downward slant angle.
  • the panel 14 When the light source 12 is not turned on, the panel 14 is transparent when viewed through both surfaces. The panel 14 is transparent when viewed from the first surface 14b under all conditions. When the light source 12 is turned on, the display panel 14 viewed from the second surface 14c produces red light, since the walls 14e appear red due to the light refracted therethrough.
  • the geometry of the display 12 is shown in FIG. 4.
  • the plane of the illustrated wall 14e illustrated in the drawing is indicated by a line 24, whereas the normal to the wall 14e is indicated by a line 26.
  • the angle between the line 24 and the Y-direction is ⁇ 1
  • the angle ⁇ 1 between the line 26 and the X-direction is also the angle of incidence of the light beam on the wall 14e.
  • the angle of refraction of the light beam out through the wall 14e is designated as ⁇ 2 .
  • ⁇ 2 ⁇ 1 + ⁇ .
  • Equ. 1 may be easily solved by iteration using a conventional digital computer. More specifically, the value of ⁇ 1 is varied until the left side of (Equ. 1) equals the right side thereof.
  • the display panel 14 described thus far retracts light from a collimated light source out through the walls 14e horizontally, with essentially no lateral dispersion (in the Z-direction).
  • Such a panel would produce a high intensity light display for an observer directly behind the panel, but a display with sharply decreasing intensity as the viewing angle increases. It is therefore desirable to provide means for creating dispersion of reflected light in the lateral direction.
  • each step 14d is formed with a series of laterally spaced curved depressions 14f, which provide continuous variation in the lateral angle of the wall 14e and thereby the desired lateral dispersion of light refracted out of the display panel 14 through the walls 14e.
  • each depression 14f preferably have a cylindrical cross-section or profile as illustrated, although other shapes such as spherical or elliptical are within the scope of the invention.
  • each depression 14f is defined by a partial cylindrical surface 14g having an axis 14h which extends upwardly from the surface 14c parallel to the plane of the respective wall 14e.
  • the depressions 14f formed in the walls 14e of alternating adjacent steps 14d are laterally displaced from each other by a distance W/2, where W is the width of each depression 14f.
  • a display device 30 includes a linear light source 32 and a display panel 34 which is mounted on top of a downwardly curved surface 36 such as an automobile rear window.
  • the display panel 34 has light receiving edge 34a and a curved first surface 34b which is concave about the Z-direction so as to conform to the surface 36.
  • the panel 34 has a second surface 34c formed with steps 34d having walls 34e in an manner similar to the device 10.
  • the angles ⁇ 1 of the individual walls 34e may differ from each other.
  • (Equ. 1) is applicable to calculation of the angle ⁇ 1 (and the complementary angle ⁇ ) for each wall 34e.
  • the panel 34 is illustrated as being concave about the Z-axis, it may also or alternatively be curved about the X-axis although not shown in the drawing. It is also within the scope of the invention to mount the display device on the bottom, rather than on top of a downwardly curved surface of an automobile rear window as indicated at 36'.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates another display device 40 embodying the invention, in which like elements are designated by the same reference numerals used in FIGS. 1 to 4, and similar but modified elements are designated by the same reference numerals primed.
  • the device 40 includes a linear light source 42 having a divergent light emitting element 42a such as a tubular discharge lamp, and a reflector 42b. Most of the light beam from the element 42a does not propagate straight from the light source 42 into a display panel 14', but diverges in the vertical direction.
  • a light receiving edge 14a' is made convex.
  • the edge 14a' thereby functions as a cylindrical converging lens which converges the light into the panel 14'.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates another display device 50 embodying the invention, in which like elements are designated by the same reference numerals used in FIGS. 1 to 4, and similar but modified elements are designated by the same reference numerals double primed.
  • the device 50 includes a linear light source 52 having a collimated light emitting element 52a such as a laser diode module, and a housing 52b.
  • the light beam from the element 52a propagates straight from the light source 52 into a display panel 14", but is collimated.
  • a light receiving edge 14a" is made concave.
  • the edge 14a" thereby functions as a cylindrical diverging lens which diverges the light into the panel 14" to a desired extent.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 may be applied to provide a specified amount of vertical dispersion or distribution of the light emitted from the display panel 14' or 14" such as required by Federal standards.
  • the vertical dispersion may be increased by making the light receiving edge of the panel concave (or less convex), and vice-versa.
  • a CHMSL 10 was constructed as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5.
  • the dimensions of the panel 14 were 25 cm in the Z-direction and 6.5 cm in the X-direction.
  • the height of the light receiving edge 14a (in the Y-direction) was 1 cm.
  • the panel 14 had ten steps 14d, with the height of the walls 14e each being 1 mm.
  • the angle ⁇ 1 by which the walls 14e were cut back toward the edge 14a (also the angle of incidence of the light beam) was 26°, whereas the complementary angle ⁇ was 66.4°.
  • the depressions 14f of the edges 14e had a radius of 2 cm and a width of 1 cm.
  • the CHMSL 10 emitted light with the peak direction being horizontal, and horizontal and vertical dispersion in excess of Federal standards.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Illuminated Signs And Luminous Advertising (AREA)
  • Medicines That Contain Protein Lipid Enzymes And Other Medicines (AREA)

Abstract

A visual display device (10) is especially suited for use as a center-high-mounted stop-light (CHMSL) for an automobile rear window which slants downwardly from the horizontal by a small angle. The device (10) includes a linear light source (12) which preferably emits red light. A display panel (14) has a light receiving edge (14a) extending parallel and adjacent to the light source (12) and first and second opposing surfaces (14b, 14c). The second surface (14b) slants toward the first surface (14c) in a direction away from the edge (14a) and is formed with steps (14d) having walls (14e) which are angled toward the edge (14a) such that the peak output light propagating through the display panel (14) from the edge (14a) is refracted horizontally out of the panel (14). The walls (14e) of the steps (14d) are formed with laterally spaced depressions (14f) for lateral dispersion of light. In addition to use as a CHMSL, the display device (10) can be employed in other applications in which a uniform, linear light source is required.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Cross Reference to Related Application
This application is related to copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/725,216, filed Jun. 26, 1991, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/357,512, filed May 25, 1989, by the present inventor. The related application is entitled "HIGH INTENSITY LIGHT DISPLAY DEVICE".
2. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to visual displays, and more specifically to a visual display device which is especially suitable for automotive center-high-mounted stop-light (CHMSL) and brake light applications.
3. Description of the Related Art
Red colored CHMSLs for automotive vehicles are becoming increasingly popular due to the greatly increased safety margin they provide. In addition to the conventional right and left mounted, red-colored rear brake lights, newer vehicles and retrofit packages for older vehicles are available which include the CHMSL in the form of a third brake light which is mounted near the top of the vehicle rear window. Depression of the vehicle brake pedal causes the CHMSL to be illuminated in combination with the two low mounted brake lights to form a triangle pattern with greatly enhanced visibility and ability to immediately attract the attention of the operator of a trailing vehicle. Statistics have already proven that CHMSLs have prevented numerous traffic accidents in situations requiring emergency braking under high speed, congested traffic conditions.
A major problem which has persisted in providing a CHMSL on a conventional automotive vehicle is that existing devices generally include an opaque housing having a rear-facing translucent red panel with a white illuminating bulb inside the housing which is wired to the vehicle's brake circuit. The opaque housing itself constitutes a safety hazard in that it blocks a portion of the view through the rear window which the vehicle operator must see via the rear-view mirror in order to monitor the proximity of other vehicles. The opaque housing or at least a light blocking member (which may be the reflector) behind the illuminating bulb and red panel is necessary to prevent the vehicle operator from confusing the CHMSL with a light from another vehicle.
Conventional CHMSLs and brake lights including a white bulb, a large and bulky reflector and a red display panel which constitutes a red filter, are inefficient in that only the red component of light from the bulb is transmitted through the panel. All other colors or wavelengths of light are absorbed by the panel and thereby wasted. The result is that the intensity of the red light emitted by the device is considerably lower than the intensity of white light emitted by the bulb.
The above referenced related application discloses a CHMSL including a linear red light source, and a display panel having a first surface formed with optical quality, light reflecting grooves, which reflect and disperse light coupled from the light source into an edge of the display panel out a second surface of the panel which is opposite to the first surface. The display panel viewed from the first surface is transparent at all times. The display panel viewed from the second surface produces a red light pattern reflected from the grooves when the light source is turned on, and appears transparent when the light source is turned off.
Although highly effective in many applications, the CHMSL of the related application is not suitable for mounting on an automobile rear window which is tilted downwardly from the horizontal by a small angle (less than approximately 20°), since the amount of light reflected out through the second surface of the panel in the horizontal direction is unacceptably small.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A visual display device embodying the present invention is especially suitable for use as a central high mounted stoplight (CHMSL) for an automobile rear window which slants downwardly from the horizontal by a small angle. The device includes a linear light source which preferably emits red light.
A display panel has a light receiving edge extending parallel and adjacent to the light source means and first and second opposing surfaces. The second surface slants toward the first surface in a direction away from the edge and is formed with steps having walls which are angled toward the edge such that the peak output light propagating through the display panel from the edge is refracted horizontally out of the display panel. Although in the basic form of the invention the first surface is flat, the first and/or second surfaces may be made concave to conform to the shape of a curved automobile rear window.
The walls of the steps are tilted or cut back toward the light receiving edge from the vertical by a small angle, which is on the same order as the angle by which the rear window is tilted or slanted downwardly from the horizontal. Thus, substantially all of the light which enters the edge of the display panel is usefully refracted horizontally out of the panel. Thus, the present display device is suitable for mounting as a CHMSL on the top of an automobile rear window with an arbitrarily small downward slant angle.
The walls of the steps are formed with laterally spaced depressions for lateral dispersion of light. Where the linear light source is nearly collimated, the edge of the panel may be made concave to vertically diverge the light beam into the panel. Conversely, where the linear light source is a light emitting diode module or the like which produces a diverging light beam, the edge of the panel may be made convex to converge the light beam into the panel.
The visual display device of the present invention is simple in structure, highly efficient, and inexpensive to manufacture on a commercial production basis. The display panel may conceivably be used individually as an element in other types of display devices. It has been determined experimentally that a display device of the present invention configured as a CHMSL including a suitable light source such as a light emitting diode module or high pressure neon discharge tube provides a red light display having an intensity substantially in excess of federal requirements.
It will be understood that the present display device is not limited to use as a CHMSL, but can be advantageously employed in other applications in which a uniform, linear light source is required.
These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, taken together with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a visual display device embodying the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the display device;
FIG. 3 is a fragmentary sectional view, to enlarged scale, illustrating the operation of the display device;
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the geometry of the display device;
FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating lateral light dispersing depressions formed in walls of steps of a slanted surface of a display panel of the display device;
FIG. 6 is a sectional view illustrating a modified display device embodying the present invention having a curved lower or upper mounting surface;
FIG. 7 is a sectional view illustrating a modified display device embodying the present invention including a display panel having a light receiving edge with a convex cross-section; and
FIG. 8 is a sectional view illustrating a modified display device embodying the present invention including a display panel having a light receiving edge with a concave cross-section.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a visual display device 10 which may be advantageously employed as a CHMSL and includes a linear light source 12, and a display panel 14 made of a light transmissive material such as glass or acrylic. Further illustrated are orthogonal X-, Y- and Z-axes or directions which are indicated by arrows and lines respectively.
The light source 12 emits a linear light beam which is elongated in the Z-direction, and propagates from the light source 12 into the panel 14 in the X-direction. The light source 12 may include any suitable elements for emitting a linear light beam, such as a laser diode module, light emitting diode module, high pressure neon tubular discharge lamp, fiber optic array, etc. As shown, the light source 12 includes a linear light emitting element 12a, and an optional parabolic reflector 12b which reflects and forms light emitted by the element 12a into a flat beam which enters a light receiving edge 14a of the display panel 14. The reflector 12b is necessary only where the light emitting element 12a is tubular. When the display device 10 is used as a CHMSL, the light source 12 emits red light.
In the basic embodiment of the invention, the edge 14a lies in the Y-Z plane and is perpendicular to a first surface 14b of the panel 14 which lies in the X-Z plane. The panel 14 further has a second surface 14c which opposes and slants or tapers toward the first surface 14b in a direction away from the edge 14a. More specifically, the second surface 14c approaches the first surface 14b in the Y-direction as the distance from the edge 14a in the X-direction increases. The second surface 14c is formed with a plurality of steps 14d having walls 14e which are elongated in the Z-direction. As illustrated more clearly in FIG. 3, the walls 14e are angled or cut back toward the edge 14a by an angle α1.
As viewed in FIGS. 2 and 3, the display device 10 is mounted on a surface 18 which is inclined (or equivalently slanted or tilted downwardly) by an angle θ relative to the horizontal as indicated by a line 20. The surface 18 is typically the rear window of an automobile, with the first surface 14b of the display panel 14 being flush therewith.
The present display device is not limited to use as a CHMSL, but can be advantageously employed in other applications in which a uniform, linear light source is required. For example, the device 10 can be mounted vertically to illuminate a floor or desk from above. A desk lamp incorporating the device 10 is unique in that the display panel 14 is transparent and will not block the forward view of the user. The device 10 can also be used to illuminate signs at business and other establishments from below. As yet another application, the device 10 can be used as a movable linear spotlight for creating special effects in theatrical and film productions.
Although the device 10 is illustrated as being mounted on top of the surface 18, it is also possible to mount the device 10 on the bottom of the surface 18 using suitable hardware (not shown) with the first surface 14b of the panel 14 parallel to the surface 18. Although not specifically illustrated, a transparent cover or housing made of plastic or the like may be provided over the display device 10 for protection against accumulated dust, scratches, etc.
The light source 12 emits the light beam into the edge 14a of the panel 14 in the X-direction, parallel to the X-Z plane. The beam propagates through the panel 14 and is contained therein by total internal reflection between the surfaces 14b and 14c until it reaches the walls 14e of the steps 14d. In accordance with the invention, the angle α1 of the walls 14e is selected as a predetermined function of θ and the index of refraction η1 of the panel 14 such that the peak output light parallel to the X-direction is refracted out of the panel 14 through the walls 14e horizontally as indicated by arrows 22. This is accomplished by selecting the angle α1 such that the light is refracted out through the walls 14e at the angle θ away from the first surface 14b.
The light is refracted upwardly by the walls 14e by the same angle θ by which the first surface 14b is slanted downwardly from the horizontal 20. Thus, substantially all of the light which enters the edge 14a of the display panel 14 parallel to the X-direction is usefully refracted horizontally out of the panel 14. Thus, the present display device 10 is suitable for mounting as a CHMSL on an automobile rear window with an arbitrarily small downward slant angle.
When the light source 12 is not turned on, the panel 14 is transparent when viewed through both surfaces. The panel 14 is transparent when viewed from the first surface 14b under all conditions. When the light source 12 is turned on, the display panel 14 viewed from the second surface 14c produces red light, since the walls 14e appear red due to the light refracted therethrough.
The geometry of the display 12 is shown in FIG. 4. The plane of the illustrated wall 14e illustrated in the drawing is indicated by a line 24, whereas the normal to the wall 14e is indicated by a line 26. The angle between the line 24 and the Y-direction is α1, whereas the angle between the line 24 and the X-direction is designated as β, where β=(90°-α1). Since the lines 24 and 26 are perpendicular, the angles α1 and β relative to the line 26 are complementary to their respective relationships to the line 24. More specifically, the angle between the line 26 and the X-direction is α1 whereas the angle between the line 26 and the Y-direction is β.
The angle α1 between the line 26 and the X-direction is also the angle of incidence of the light beam on the wall 14e. The angle of refraction of the light beam out through the wall 14e is designated as α2. For the light to be refracted out of the display panel 14 through the walls 14e in the horizontal direction 20 as indicated at 22, α2 =α1 +θ. By Snell's law,
η.sub.1 ×sin (α.sub.1)=η.sub.2 ×sin (α.sub.2)=η.sub.2 ×sin (α.sub.1 +θ)
where η2 is the index of refraction of air, with η2 =1. Thus, the angle α1 is given as a function of θ and η1 as
sin (α.sub.1 +θ)/ sin (α.sub.1)=η.sub.1 (Equ. 1)
(Equ. 1) may be easily solved by iteration using a conventional digital computer. More specifically, the value of α1 is varied until the left side of (Equ. 1) equals the right side thereof.
The display panel 14 described thus far retracts light from a collimated light source out through the walls 14e horizontally, with essentially no lateral dispersion (in the Z-direction). Such a panel would produce a high intensity light display for an observer directly behind the panel, but a display with sharply decreasing intensity as the viewing angle increases. It is therefore desirable to provide means for creating dispersion of reflected light in the lateral direction.
As illustrated in FIG. 5, the wall 14e of each step 14d is formed with a series of laterally spaced curved depressions 14f, which provide continuous variation in the lateral angle of the wall 14e and thereby the desired lateral dispersion of light refracted out of the display panel 14 through the walls 14e.
The depressions 14f preferably have a cylindrical cross-section or profile as illustrated, although other shapes such as spherical or elliptical are within the scope of the invention. As viewed in FIG. 5, each depression 14f is defined by a partial cylindrical surface 14g having an axis 14h which extends upwardly from the surface 14c parallel to the plane of the respective wall 14e. In order to provide further dispersion and better appearance, the depressions 14f formed in the walls 14e of alternating adjacent steps 14d are laterally displaced from each other by a distance W/2, where W is the width of each depression 14f.
Whereas the surface 14b of the display panel 14 of the display device 10 is flat, it is within the scope of the invention to form the display panel into a curved shape to conform to a surface on which it is mounted. As illustrated in FIG. 6, a display device 30 includes a linear light source 32 and a display panel 34 which is mounted on top of a downwardly curved surface 36 such as an automobile rear window. The display panel 34 has light receiving edge 34a and a curved first surface 34b which is concave about the Z-direction so as to conform to the surface 36. The panel 34 has a second surface 34c formed with steps 34d having walls 34e in an manner similar to the device 10.
Due to the curvature of the panel 34, the angles α1 of the individual walls 34e may differ from each other. However, (Equ. 1) is applicable to calculation of the angle α1 (and the complementary angle β) for each wall 34e. Although the panel 34 is illustrated as being concave about the Z-axis, it may also or alternatively be curved about the X-axis although not shown in the drawing. It is also within the scope of the invention to mount the display device on the bottom, rather than on top of a downwardly curved surface of an automobile rear window as indicated at 36'.
FIG. 7 illustrates another display device 40 embodying the invention, in which like elements are designated by the same reference numerals used in FIGS. 1 to 4, and similar but modified elements are designated by the same reference numerals primed. The device 40 includes a linear light source 42 having a divergent light emitting element 42a such as a tubular discharge lamp, and a reflector 42b. Most of the light beam from the element 42a does not propagate straight from the light source 42 into a display panel 14', but diverges in the vertical direction.
In order to channel the light into the panel 14' at a smaller aperture, a light receiving edge 14a' is made convex. The edge 14a' thereby functions as a cylindrical converging lens which converges the light into the panel 14'.
FIG. 8 illustrates another display device 50 embodying the invention, in which like elements are designated by the same reference numerals used in FIGS. 1 to 4, and similar but modified elements are designated by the same reference numerals double primed. The device 50 includes a linear light source 52 having a collimated light emitting element 52a such as a laser diode module, and a housing 52b. The light beam from the element 52a propagates straight from the light source 52 into a display panel 14", but is collimated.
In order to diverge the light into the panel 14", a light receiving edge 14a" is made concave. The edge 14a" thereby functions as a cylindrical diverging lens which diverges the light into the panel 14" to a desired extent.
The principles of the embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8 may be applied to provide a specified amount of vertical dispersion or distribution of the light emitted from the display panel 14' or 14" such as required by Federal standards. The vertical dispersion may be increased by making the light receiving edge of the panel concave (or less convex), and vice-versa.
EXAMPLE
A CHMSL 10 was constructed as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5. The display panel 14 was formed of acrylic plastic resin having an index of refraction η1 =1.49, whereas the light source 12 was a red light emitting diode array. The dimensions of the panel 14 were 25 cm in the Z-direction and 6.5 cm in the X-direction. The height of the light receiving edge 14a (in the Y-direction) was 1 cm. The panel 14 had ten steps 14d, with the height of the walls 14e each being 1 mm.
The panel 14 was slanted from the horizontal by an angle θ=13°. The angle α1 by which the walls 14e were cut back toward the edge 14a (also the angle of incidence of the light beam) was 26°, whereas the complementary angle β was 66.4°. The angle of refraction α2 was (α1 +θ)=33.6°. The depressions 14f of the edges 14e had a radius of 2 cm and a width of 1 cm.
The CHMSL 10 emitted light with the peak direction being horizontal, and horizontal and vertical dispersion in excess of Federal standards.
While several illustrative embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, numerous variations and alternate embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention not be limited solely to the specifically described illustrative embodiments. Various modifications are contemplated and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (20)

I claim:
1. A visual display device comprising:
light source means; and
a display panel having a light receiving edge and first and second opposing surfaces extending away from said edge, said edge being positioned to be illuminated by said light source means;
the second surface being formed with steps having walls which are angled toward said edge such that light propagating through the display panel from said edge is refracted out of the display panel through said walls in a direction at least partially away from the first surface.
2. A display device as in claim 1, in which the second surface slants toward the first surface in a direction away from said edge.
3. A display device as in claim 2, in which:
the display panel is designed to be mounted with the second surface disposed above the first surface and said edge at an uppermost position such that the first surface is inclined relative to the horizontal by a predetermined angle; and
said walls are angled toward said edge such that said light is refracted out of the display panel through said walls at substantially said predetermined angle relative to the first surface.
4. A display device as in claim 2, in which:
said light source means comprises a divergent linear light source; and
said edge has a convex cross-section.
5. A display device as in claim 2, in which:
said light source means comprises a non-divergent linear light source; and
said edge has a concave cross-section.
6. A display device as in claim 2, in which said walls are formed with a plurality of laterally spaced, curved light dispersing depressions.
7. A display device as in claim 6, in which:
said depressions have a predetermined width; and
said depressions of each wall are laterally offset from said depressions of adjacent walls by approximately half the width of said depressions.
8. A display device as in claim 6, in which said depressions have substantially cylindrical shapes.
9. A display device as in claim 2, in which the first surface is substantially flat.
10. A display device as in claim 2, in which the first surface is concave.
11. A display panel comprising:
a light receiving edge; and
first and second opposing surfaces;
the second surface being formed with steps having walls which are angled toward said edge such that light propagating through the display panel from said edge is refracted out of the display panel through said walls in a direction at least partially away from the first surface.
12. A display panel as in claim 11, in which the second surface slants toward the first surface in a direction away from said edge.
13. A display panel as in claim 12, in which:
the display panel is designed to be mounted with the second surface disposed above the first surface and said edge at an uppermost position such that the first surface is inclined relative to the horizontal by a predetermined angle; and
said walls are angled toward said edge such that said light is refracted out of the display panel through said walls at substantially said predetermined angle relative to the first surface.
14. A display panel as in claim 12, in which said edge has a convex cross-section.
15. A display panel as in claim 12, in which said edge has a concave cross-section.
16. A display panel as in claim 12, in which said walls are formed with a plurality of laterally spaced, curved light dispersing depressions.
17. A display panel as in claim 16, in which:
said depressions have a predetermined width; and
said depressions of each wall are laterally offset from said depressions of adjacent walls by approximately half the width of said depressions.
18. A display panel as in claim 16, in which said depressions have substantially cylindrical shapes.
19. A display panel as in claim 12, in which the first surface is substantially flat.
20. A display panel as in claim 12, in which the first surface is concave.
US07/853,473 1992-03-18 1992-03-18 Visual display device Expired - Lifetime US5165772A (en)

Priority Applications (7)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/853,473 US5165772A (en) 1992-03-18 1992-03-18 Visual display device
PCT/US1992/007560 WO1993018939A1 (en) 1992-03-18 1992-09-09 Visual display device
JP5516505A JPH06507365A (en) 1992-03-18 1992-09-09 display device
CA002103158A CA2103158A1 (en) 1992-03-18 1992-09-09 Visual display device
EP92920572A EP0585413A1 (en) 1992-03-18 1992-09-09 Visual display device
KR1019930703494A KR960001839B1 (en) 1992-03-18 1992-09-09 Display panel and display device having same
MX9205395A MX9205395A (en) 1992-03-18 1992-09-23 VISUAL DISPLAY DEVICE

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/853,473 US5165772A (en) 1992-03-18 1992-03-18 Visual display device

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US5165772A true US5165772A (en) 1992-11-24

Family

ID=25316124

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US07/853,473 Expired - Lifetime US5165772A (en) 1992-03-18 1992-03-18 Visual display device

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (1) US5165772A (en)
EP (1) EP0585413A1 (en)
JP (1) JPH06507365A (en)
KR (1) KR960001839B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2103158A1 (en)
MX (1) MX9205395A (en)
WO (1) WO1993018939A1 (en)

Cited By (62)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1993021484A1 (en) * 1992-04-16 1993-10-28 Tir Technologies, Inc. Faceted totally internally reflecting lens with curved faces
US5550657A (en) * 1992-09-14 1996-08-27 Fujitsu Limited Liquid crystal display device having an optimized ridged layer to improve luminosity
US5590945A (en) * 1995-07-26 1997-01-07 Industrial Devices, Inc. Illuminated line of light using point light source
US5684468A (en) * 1991-05-29 1997-11-04 Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho Illuminating display device
US5711592A (en) * 1994-10-25 1998-01-27 Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Lamplight device for vehicle
US5748389A (en) * 1996-09-30 1998-05-05 Motorola, Inc. Optical pedestal and method for using the same
FR2757605A1 (en) * 1996-12-24 1998-06-26 Valeo Vision OPTICAL BAR FOR MOTOR VEHICLE PROJECTOR
US5788357A (en) * 1996-08-28 1998-08-04 K. W. Muth Company, Inc. Mirror assembly
US5791757A (en) * 1997-04-01 1998-08-11 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Vehicle lighting system utilizing a uniform thickness thin sheet optical element
US5890796A (en) * 1997-01-16 1999-04-06 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Laser illuminated lighting system utilizing a diffractive optical element
WO1999017956A1 (en) * 1997-10-06 1999-04-15 Decoma International Inc. Panel assembly with integrated stop signal
US6005724A (en) * 1998-10-05 1999-12-21 K. W. Muth Company, Inc. Mirror coating, mirror utilizing same, and a mirror assembly
US6036340A (en) * 1998-03-03 2000-03-14 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Dimpled manifold optical element for a vehicle lighting system
US6045243A (en) * 1996-08-28 2000-04-04 K.W. Muth Company, Inc. Mirror assembly
US6102559A (en) * 1999-01-25 2000-08-15 Ford Motor Company Multi-function vehicle taillight system with unitary optic
US6186650B1 (en) * 1997-12-09 2001-02-13 Cooper Automotive Products, Inc. Vehicle headlamp with beamforming waveguide
US6224223B1 (en) * 1997-12-22 2001-05-01 Casio Computer Co., Ltd. Illumination panel and display device using the same
US6257746B1 (en) 1998-11-03 2001-07-10 K. W. Muth Company, Inc. Signalling assembly
US6299334B1 (en) * 1999-01-21 2001-10-09 Fer Fahrzeugelektrik Gmbh Vehicle lamp
US6305813B1 (en) * 1999-08-11 2001-10-23 North American Lighting, Inc. Display device using a light guide for exterior automotive lighting
US6419308B1 (en) 1999-10-29 2002-07-16 Asc Incorporated Movable roof system for an automotive vehicle
US6422713B1 (en) 2000-10-17 2002-07-23 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Thin-sheet collimation optics for diode laser illumination systems for use in night vision and exterior lighting applications
US6447128B1 (en) 2000-07-28 2002-09-10 Lang-Mekra North America Llc Rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle with monitor
EP1055866A3 (en) * 1999-05-26 2002-09-25 Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft für elektrische Glühlampen mbH Motor vehicle lamp
US6497505B2 (en) 2001-03-22 2002-12-24 Visteon Global Tech., Inc. Light manifold assembly
US6505946B2 (en) * 1999-01-29 2003-01-14 Minebea Co., Ltd. Spread illumination apparatus
EP1288562A1 (en) * 2001-08-31 2003-03-05 Valeo Vision Lighting or signalling device for motor vehicle
WO2003029722A1 (en) 2001-10-03 2003-04-10 3M Innovative Properties Company Light-guide lights providing a substantially monochromatic beam
US6547428B1 (en) * 1999-09-30 2003-04-15 Valeo Vision Motor vehicle headlight with light pipe
US20030174513A1 (en) * 2002-03-13 2003-09-18 Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft Fur Elektrische Gluhl Luminaire having an optical conductor and a plurality of light sources
US6623132B2 (en) * 1999-08-11 2003-09-23 North American Lighting, Inc. Light coupler hingedly attached to a light guide for automotive lighting
US6642840B2 (en) 2000-07-28 2003-11-04 Lang-Mekra North Amicica, Llc Rearview mirror assembly with monitor
US20030235046A1 (en) * 2002-06-25 2003-12-25 Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. Optical element and lamp assembly utilizing the same
US20040004841A1 (en) * 2002-04-10 2004-01-08 Heinrich Lang Outside mirror with blinker light for vehicles
US20040047160A1 (en) * 2001-09-06 2004-03-11 Ching Fong Visual display device
EP1405296A2 (en) * 2000-09-08 2004-04-07 Textron Automotive Company Inc. Visual display device
US20040104604A1 (en) * 2001-05-29 2004-06-03 Stephen Doncov Automotive vehicle with open air system
DE10314256A1 (en) * 2003-03-29 2004-10-07 Hella Kg Hueck & Co. Vehicle light has optical conductor with rear surface shaped to direct light in departure direction by total internal reflection
WO2005008127A1 (en) 2003-07-22 2005-01-27 Tir Systems Ltd. System and method for the diffusion of illumination produced by discrete light sources
US6879354B1 (en) 1997-03-28 2005-04-12 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Front-illuminating device and a reflection-type liquid crystal display using such a device
US7009498B2 (en) 2001-04-03 2006-03-07 Lang-Mekra North America, Llc Mirror arrangement for motor vehicles
US7008091B2 (en) 2003-12-18 2006-03-07 K.W. Muth Company, Inc. Electromagnetic radiation assembly
US7079017B2 (en) 2001-04-23 2006-07-18 Lang-Mekra North America, Llc Warning device in motor vehicles
US20060164855A1 (en) * 2004-12-22 2006-07-27 Emil Stefanov Light module with rearside introduction of light for simulation and/or as supplement of conventional light piping rods
US20070139955A1 (en) * 2005-12-20 2007-06-21 Valeo Vision Lighting or signalling device with a light guide, for a motor vehicle
US7241037B2 (en) 2005-03-23 2007-07-10 K.W. Muth Company Signaling assembly
CN100340905C (en) * 1997-03-28 2007-10-03 夏普株式会社 Front lighting device and reflective liquid crystal display device with said device
US7327321B2 (en) 2005-06-27 2008-02-05 K.W. Muth Company, Inc. Electromagnetic radiation assembly
FR2954923A1 (en) * 2010-01-06 2011-07-08 Delphi Tech Inc DIFFRACTIVE SIGNALING DEVICE FOR MIRROR WITH 2D / 3D DISPLAY
US20120243249A1 (en) * 2011-03-25 2012-09-27 Masafumi Ohno Vehicle lighting unit
US20140212090A1 (en) * 2013-01-30 2014-07-31 Cree, Inc. Optical Waveguides
US20140268875A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Cree, Inc. Shaped Optical Waveguide Bodies
US20150078027A1 (en) * 2011-03-25 2015-03-19 Stanley Electric Co., Ltd. Vehicle lighting unit
US20150253488A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2015-09-10 Cree, Inc. Luminaire utilizing waveguide
CN106461192A (en) * 2014-05-30 2017-02-22 克里公司 Optical components for luminaire
US9645303B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2017-05-09 Cree, Inc. Luminaires utilizing edge coupling
WO2017215987A1 (en) * 2016-06-16 2017-12-21 Philips Lighting Holding B.V. A lighting system using a light guiding structure.
US9989691B2 (en) 2009-06-29 2018-06-05 3M Innovative Properties Company Lightguide and light source incorporating same
US10107944B2 (en) 2016-02-29 2018-10-23 Sensor Electronic Technology, Inc. Light emitting device for emitting diffuse ultraviolet light
CN109099391A (en) * 2016-06-29 2018-12-28 深圳市窗科技有限责任公司 One kind going out photosystem
CN110822372A (en) * 2018-08-08 2020-02-21 株式会社小糸制作所 Vehicle lamp
US10712480B2 (en) 2016-02-29 2020-07-14 Sensor Electronic Technology, Inc. Light emitting device for emitting diffuse ultraviolet light

Families Citing this family (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU4273696A (en) 1995-09-11 1997-04-01 Valery Filippovich Ivanov Method and device for optical signalling in a vehicle
JP3924804B2 (en) * 1996-04-09 2007-06-06 カシオ計算機株式会社 Light guiding device, manufacturing method thereof, and light source structure using the same
DE19803518A1 (en) * 1998-01-30 1999-08-05 Hella Kg Hueck & Co Rod-shaped light guide
DE19806526A1 (en) * 1998-02-17 1999-08-19 Hella Kg Hueck & Co Lighting device for motor vehicles
KR101651693B1 (en) † 2008-03-31 2016-08-26 쓰리엠 이노베이티브 프로퍼티즈 컴파니 Primer layer for multilayer optical film
JP5457780B2 (en) * 2009-10-14 2014-04-02 株式会社小糸製作所 Vehicle lamp
JP5516868B2 (en) * 2010-03-01 2014-06-11 スタンレー電気株式会社 Signal light unit for vehicles
JP5773189B2 (en) * 2011-05-23 2015-09-02 スタンレー電気株式会社 Lamp

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2283598A (en) * 1939-05-11 1942-05-19 Fabrication Des Projecturs Ele Illuminating apparatus
US2877342A (en) * 1952-10-04 1959-03-10 Bridgeport Metal Goods Mfg Co Diffusing lens for spot light reflector
US5075826A (en) * 1990-12-17 1991-12-24 Lan Ching Hwei Auxiliary brake lamp

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2480178A (en) * 1946-05-08 1949-08-30 Ivan H Zinberg Light conductor
DE3123369A1 (en) * 1981-06-12 1983-02-03 Vdo Schindling Optical waveguide

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2283598A (en) * 1939-05-11 1942-05-19 Fabrication Des Projecturs Ele Illuminating apparatus
US2877342A (en) * 1952-10-04 1959-03-10 Bridgeport Metal Goods Mfg Co Diffusing lens for spot light reflector
US5075826A (en) * 1990-12-17 1991-12-24 Lan Ching Hwei Auxiliary brake lamp

Cited By (103)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5684468A (en) * 1991-05-29 1997-11-04 Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho Illuminating display device
WO1993021484A1 (en) * 1992-04-16 1993-10-28 Tir Technologies, Inc. Faceted totally internally reflecting lens with curved faces
US5550657A (en) * 1992-09-14 1996-08-27 Fujitsu Limited Liquid crystal display device having an optimized ridged layer to improve luminosity
US5711592A (en) * 1994-10-25 1998-01-27 Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Lamplight device for vehicle
US5590945A (en) * 1995-07-26 1997-01-07 Industrial Devices, Inc. Illuminated line of light using point light source
US6045243A (en) * 1996-08-28 2000-04-04 K.W. Muth Company, Inc. Mirror assembly
US5788357A (en) * 1996-08-28 1998-08-04 K. W. Muth Company, Inc. Mirror assembly
US5748389A (en) * 1996-09-30 1998-05-05 Motorola, Inc. Optical pedestal and method for using the same
FR2757605A1 (en) * 1996-12-24 1998-06-26 Valeo Vision OPTICAL BAR FOR MOTOR VEHICLE PROJECTOR
US5890796A (en) * 1997-01-16 1999-04-06 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Laser illuminated lighting system utilizing a diffractive optical element
US7714956B2 (en) 1997-03-28 2010-05-11 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Front illuminating device and a reflection-type liquid crystal display using such a device
US6879354B1 (en) 1997-03-28 2005-04-12 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Front-illuminating device and a reflection-type liquid crystal display using such a device
US20050174509A1 (en) * 1997-03-28 2005-08-11 Yutaka Sawayama Front illuminating device and a reflection-type liquid crystal display using such adevice
CN100340905C (en) * 1997-03-28 2007-10-03 夏普株式会社 Front lighting device and reflective liquid crystal display device with said device
US5791757A (en) * 1997-04-01 1998-08-11 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Vehicle lighting system utilizing a uniform thickness thin sheet optical element
WO1999017956A1 (en) * 1997-10-06 1999-04-15 Decoma International Inc. Panel assembly with integrated stop signal
US6536930B1 (en) 1997-10-06 2003-03-25 Gerhard F. Hirmer Panel assembly with integrated stop signal
US6186650B1 (en) * 1997-12-09 2001-02-13 Cooper Automotive Products, Inc. Vehicle headlamp with beamforming waveguide
US6224223B1 (en) * 1997-12-22 2001-05-01 Casio Computer Co., Ltd. Illumination panel and display device using the same
US6036340A (en) * 1998-03-03 2000-03-14 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Dimpled manifold optical element for a vehicle lighting system
EP0940625A3 (en) * 1998-03-03 2001-03-21 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. A dimpled manifold optical element for a vehicle lighting system
US6005724A (en) * 1998-10-05 1999-12-21 K. W. Muth Company, Inc. Mirror coating, mirror utilizing same, and a mirror assembly
US6257746B1 (en) 1998-11-03 2001-07-10 K. W. Muth Company, Inc. Signalling assembly
US6299334B1 (en) * 1999-01-21 2001-10-09 Fer Fahrzeugelektrik Gmbh Vehicle lamp
US6102559A (en) * 1999-01-25 2000-08-15 Ford Motor Company Multi-function vehicle taillight system with unitary optic
US6505946B2 (en) * 1999-01-29 2003-01-14 Minebea Co., Ltd. Spread illumination apparatus
EP1055866A3 (en) * 1999-05-26 2002-09-25 Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft für elektrische Glühlampen mbH Motor vehicle lamp
US6623132B2 (en) * 1999-08-11 2003-09-23 North American Lighting, Inc. Light coupler hingedly attached to a light guide for automotive lighting
US6305813B1 (en) * 1999-08-11 2001-10-23 North American Lighting, Inc. Display device using a light guide for exterior automotive lighting
US6547428B1 (en) * 1999-09-30 2003-04-15 Valeo Vision Motor vehicle headlight with light pipe
US6419308B1 (en) 1999-10-29 2002-07-16 Asc Incorporated Movable roof system for an automotive vehicle
US6447128B1 (en) 2000-07-28 2002-09-10 Lang-Mekra North America Llc Rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle with monitor
US6642840B2 (en) 2000-07-28 2003-11-04 Lang-Mekra North Amicica, Llc Rearview mirror assembly with monitor
EP1405296A4 (en) * 2000-09-08 2007-05-09 Textron Automotive Co Inc Visual display device
EP1405296A2 (en) * 2000-09-08 2004-04-07 Textron Automotive Company Inc. Visual display device
US6422713B1 (en) 2000-10-17 2002-07-23 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Thin-sheet collimation optics for diode laser illumination systems for use in night vision and exterior lighting applications
US6497505B2 (en) 2001-03-22 2002-12-24 Visteon Global Tech., Inc. Light manifold assembly
US7009498B2 (en) 2001-04-03 2006-03-07 Lang-Mekra North America, Llc Mirror arrangement for motor vehicles
US7079017B2 (en) 2001-04-23 2006-07-18 Lang-Mekra North America, Llc Warning device in motor vehicles
US6827392B2 (en) 2001-05-29 2004-12-07 Asc Incorporated Automotive vehicle with open air system
US6945590B2 (en) 2001-05-29 2005-09-20 Asc Incorporated Automotive vehicle with open air system
US20040104604A1 (en) * 2001-05-29 2004-06-03 Stephen Doncov Automotive vehicle with open air system
US20040104605A1 (en) * 2001-05-29 2004-06-03 Stephen Doncov Automotive vehicle with open air system
US20040145219A1 (en) * 2001-05-29 2004-07-29 Stephen Doncov Automotive vehicle with open air system
US6890022B2 (en) 2001-05-29 2005-05-10 Asc Incorporated Automotive vehicle with open air system
US6814479B2 (en) 2001-08-31 2004-11-09 Valeo Vision Lighting of indicating apparatus for a motor vehicle
FR2829223A1 (en) * 2001-08-31 2003-03-07 Valeo Vision LIGHTING OR SIGNALING DEVICE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE
EP1288562A1 (en) * 2001-08-31 2003-03-05 Valeo Vision Lighting or signalling device for motor vehicle
US20040047160A1 (en) * 2001-09-06 2004-03-11 Ching Fong Visual display device
US7273305B2 (en) 2001-09-06 2007-09-25 Collins & Aikman Development Company Visual display device
WO2003029722A1 (en) 2001-10-03 2003-04-10 3M Innovative Properties Company Light-guide lights providing a substantially monochromatic beam
US20040196667A1 (en) * 2001-10-03 2004-10-07 Lea Michael Charles Light-guide lights providing a substantially monochromatic beam
US8393773B2 (en) 2001-10-03 2013-03-12 3M Innovative Properties Company Light-guide lights providing a substantially monochromatic beam
US20030174513A1 (en) * 2002-03-13 2003-09-18 Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft Fur Elektrische Gluhl Luminaire having an optical conductor and a plurality of light sources
US20040004841A1 (en) * 2002-04-10 2004-01-08 Heinrich Lang Outside mirror with blinker light for vehicles
US7025486B2 (en) 2002-04-10 2006-04-11 Lang-Mekra North America, Llc Outside mirror with blinker light for vehicles
US6824284B2 (en) * 2002-06-25 2004-11-30 Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. Edge-lit optical element having a manifold and lamp assembly utilizing such element
US20030235046A1 (en) * 2002-06-25 2003-12-25 Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. Optical element and lamp assembly utilizing the same
DE10314256A1 (en) * 2003-03-29 2004-10-07 Hella Kg Hueck & Co. Vehicle light has optical conductor with rear surface shaped to direct light in departure direction by total internal reflection
US20050063063A1 (en) * 2003-07-22 2005-03-24 Tir Systems Ltd. System and method for the diffusion of illumination produced by discrete light sources
WO2005008127A1 (en) 2003-07-22 2005-01-27 Tir Systems Ltd. System and method for the diffusion of illumination produced by discrete light sources
US7255458B2 (en) 2003-07-22 2007-08-14 Tir Systems, Ltd. System and method for the diffusion of illumination produced by discrete light sources
US7008091B2 (en) 2003-12-18 2006-03-07 K.W. Muth Company, Inc. Electromagnetic radiation assembly
US7401963B2 (en) * 2004-12-22 2008-07-22 Odelo Gmbh Light module with rearside introduction of light for simulation and/or as supplement of conventional light piping rods
US20060164855A1 (en) * 2004-12-22 2006-07-27 Emil Stefanov Light module with rearside introduction of light for simulation and/or as supplement of conventional light piping rods
US7241037B2 (en) 2005-03-23 2007-07-10 K.W. Muth Company Signaling assembly
US7327321B2 (en) 2005-06-27 2008-02-05 K.W. Muth Company, Inc. Electromagnetic radiation assembly
US20070139955A1 (en) * 2005-12-20 2007-06-21 Valeo Vision Lighting or signalling device with a light guide, for a motor vehicle
US9989691B2 (en) 2009-06-29 2018-06-05 3M Innovative Properties Company Lightguide and light source incorporating same
FR2954923A1 (en) * 2010-01-06 2011-07-08 Delphi Tech Inc DIFFRACTIVE SIGNALING DEVICE FOR MIRROR WITH 2D / 3D DISPLAY
WO2011083042A1 (en) * 2010-01-06 2011-07-14 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Diffractive signaling device for a rearview mirror having a 2d/3d display
US8749371B2 (en) 2010-01-06 2014-06-10 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Diffractive signaling device for rear-view mirror with 2D/3D display
US9188298B2 (en) * 2011-03-25 2015-11-17 Stanley Electric Co., Ltd. Vehicle lighting unit
US20150078027A1 (en) * 2011-03-25 2015-03-19 Stanley Electric Co., Ltd. Vehicle lighting unit
US9689546B2 (en) * 2011-03-25 2017-06-27 Light Prescriptions Innovators, Llc Vehicle lighting unit
US20120243249A1 (en) * 2011-03-25 2012-09-27 Masafumi Ohno Vehicle lighting unit
CN105074520B (en) * 2013-01-30 2021-05-11 理想工业照明有限责任公司 Optical waveguide
US20140212090A1 (en) * 2013-01-30 2014-07-31 Cree, Inc. Optical Waveguides
CN105074520A (en) * 2013-01-30 2015-11-18 克利公司 Optical waveguides
US9519095B2 (en) * 2013-01-30 2016-12-13 Cree, Inc. Optical waveguides
US9709725B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2017-07-18 Cree, Inc. Luminaire utilizing waveguide
US10310160B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2019-06-04 Cree, Inc. Luminaire utilizing waveguide
US20140268875A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Cree, Inc. Shaped Optical Waveguide Bodies
US20180045875A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2018-02-15 Cree, Inc. Luminaire utilizing waveguide
US20150253488A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2015-09-10 Cree, Inc. Luminaire utilizing waveguide
US9645303B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2017-05-09 Cree, Inc. Luminaires utilizing edge coupling
US10168467B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2019-01-01 Cree, Inc. Luminaires utilizing edge coupling
US10436970B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2019-10-08 Ideal Industries Lighting Llc Shaped optical waveguide bodies
EP2973866B1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2019-04-24 Cree, Inc. Shaped optical waveguide bodies
CN106461192A (en) * 2014-05-30 2017-02-22 克里公司 Optical components for luminaire
CN106461192B (en) * 2014-05-30 2019-11-19 克里公司 Optical module for lighting apparatus
US10107944B2 (en) 2016-02-29 2018-10-23 Sensor Electronic Technology, Inc. Light emitting device for emitting diffuse ultraviolet light
US10712480B2 (en) 2016-02-29 2020-07-14 Sensor Electronic Technology, Inc. Light emitting device for emitting diffuse ultraviolet light
US11143799B2 (en) 2016-02-29 2021-10-12 Sensor Electronic Technology, Inc. Light emitting device for emitting diffuse ultraviolet light
US11656387B2 (en) 2016-02-29 2023-05-23 Sensor Electronic Technology, Inc. Light emitting device for emitting diffuse light
US20190302344A1 (en) * 2016-06-16 2019-10-03 Philips Lighting Holding B.V. A lighting system using a light guiding structure
CN109477627A (en) * 2016-06-16 2019-03-15 飞利浦照明控股有限公司 Lighting system using light guiding structure
WO2017215987A1 (en) * 2016-06-16 2017-12-21 Philips Lighting Holding B.V. A lighting system using a light guiding structure.
CN109477627B (en) * 2016-06-16 2021-09-24 昕诺飞控股有限公司 Lighting system using light guiding structure
CN109099391A (en) * 2016-06-29 2018-12-28 深圳市窗科技有限责任公司 One kind going out photosystem
CN109099391B (en) * 2016-06-29 2020-11-27 深圳市一窗科技有限责任公司 a light-emitting system
CN110822372A (en) * 2018-08-08 2020-02-21 株式会社小糸制作所 Vehicle lamp
CN110822372B (en) * 2018-08-08 2022-01-04 株式会社小糸制作所 Vehicle lamp

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0585413A1 (en) 1994-03-09
WO1993018939A1 (en) 1993-09-30
CA2103158A1 (en) 1993-09-19
MX9205395A (en) 1993-09-01
KR960001839B1 (en) 1996-02-06
JPH06507365A (en) 1994-08-25

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US5165772A (en) Visual display device
US5816681A (en) Inconspicuous light sources particularly for vehicular applications
CA2297526C (en) Display device using a light guide for exterior automotive lighting
US5590945A (en) Illuminated line of light using point light source
JP4153427B2 (en) Light guide that forms a substantially monochromatic beam
CA2437494C (en) Strip lighting apparatus and method
US5227773A (en) High-intensity light display device
JP4984058B2 (en) Light source device and vehicle headlamp
JP2004235153A (en) Light guide with reflector
US5097395A (en) Multiple cavity light fixture
US5730519A (en) Headlight for vehicle
US3969621A (en) Motor vehicle light assembly utilizing total internal reflection
CA2016468C (en) High-intensity red light display device
EP1363067A2 (en) Vehicle lamp with visor
CN221054850U (en) Light distribution part, lighting and/or signalling device and motor vehicle
JP7023780B2 (en) Vehicle lighting
KR101906526B1 (en) Integrated optical system of lighting device for vehicle
CN220338282U (en) Light guide, lighting and/or signalling device and motor vehicle
WO2024110563A1 (en) Optical illumination assembly, lighting apparatus and motor vehicle
CN219389473U (en) Flexible light guide lens structure
JPH0452117Y2 (en)
US20070096026A1 (en) Reflective collimation optic
JPH0235121Y2 (en)
CN113898918A (en) Thick wall light-directing structure and car light
JP2022097706A (en) Vehicle lighting

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: HUGHES AIRCRAFT COMPANY, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNOR:WU, WEI-YU;REEL/FRAME:006063/0986

Effective date: 19920316

STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

AS Assignment

Owner name: HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HE HOLDINGS INC., HUGHES ELECTRONICS FORMERLY KNOWN AS HUGHES AIRCRAFT COMPANY;REEL/FRAME:009350/0366

Effective date: 19971217

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 8

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

Free format text: PAYER NUMBER DE-ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: RMPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 12